Annika's Tears Of Joy

After I learned from my Golf Channel colleague Frank Nobilo that his neighbors Annika Sorenstam and Mike McGee announced their engagement Saturday, I contacted McGee to congratulate him. I've known Mike since he was a sports agent working for Ken Kennerly in Palm Beach Gardens. When I read the press release explaining that Mike had proposed while Annika was "relaxing peacefully at home with her cats, and I know that's when she is most content," I had to send a text asking some basic questions.

From their Orlando home, Mike replied: "Yes, I was on my knees. It was a complete surprise. . . . Yes, there were some tears. No date at this point."

The couple announced the news on Annika's website.

Orlando, Florida (August 25, 2007) -- LPGA Hall of Fame golfer Annika Sorenstam and her boyfriend of two years, Mike McGee, were engaged on Saturday morning at their home in Orlando, Florida. They announced the news on Annika's website, www.annikasorenstam.com.

"What a lovely surprise!" Annika said.  "I'm as happy as I can be."

McGee added, "I've been carrying the ring around for a week, and it just seemed like the right time this morning.  She was relaxing peacefully at home with her cats and I know that's when she is most content."

No plans have been made yet for a wedding date.

McGee, the son of former PGA TOUR golfer Jerry McGee, has served as Managing Director for the ANNIKA brand of businesses since Dec. 2006, when he relocated to Orlando.

Annika is the greatest female golfer of our generation, and often regarded as the best player in LPGA history. Her prestigious list of accomplishments includes her 2003 induction into the LPGA and World Golf Halls of Fame, ten Major Championships, 85 worldwide professional victories, eight LPGA Player of the Year Awards, and participation on seven Solheim Cup teams. Annika has worked hard on her off-the-course businesses, which include the ANNIKA Academy, the ANNIKA Foundation, the ANNIKA Collection with Cutter & Buck, numerous golf course design projects, tournaments she hosts on both the LPGA and Ladies European Tours and her website.

--Tim Rosaforte